Page 15 - MCPaIRS Newsletter

Sector Analysis
MCPaIRS TM Newsletter

Sector Analysis - Biodegradable Packaging

Biodegradable products can decompose through biological processes with only the
assistance of naturally occurring environmental conditions. In contrast, compostable

products call for controlled environmental conditions with active microorganisms and heat.

Biodegradable Standards:

To meet EN 13432 standards for biodegradability, environmentally friendly packaging must
degrade by a minimum of 90% within nine months of disposal. Eco-friendly packaging,
made from paper, is an ideal option to meet this requirement.

Taxonomy of Biodegradable Packaging

Publication
number

Biodegradable packaging can be - polymers/plastics, paper – based and other types.
Packaging can be done through various production process such as extrusion,
thermo-forming, casting, baking, blow molding etc. Mechanism of breakdown can be by
chemical, microbial/biological, oxo-degradable, UV-degradable, thermal degradable plastics
/ polymers. They have their application in the field of food packaging, pharmaceutical and
medical services, automobiles, electrical and mechanical devices, agriculture, cosmetics
etc.

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